A massive drug shortage is expected within three months, according to the Pharmacy Owners' Association.

The existing backup stocks of medicines are set to be depleted within three months, according to All-Island Private Pharmacy Owners' Association (ACPA) President Chandika Gankanda.

He stated that the country is experiencing a 5% shortage of essential medicines.

He believes that with the current backup stocks, this practice will not be sustainable for long.

"With the current dollar crunch in the country, the manufacturers and importers are unable to manufacture or import the required medicines because they are more expensive," says the government.

If the shortage persists, there is a risk of an insulin shortage (medication).

Due to higher raw material import costs, the manufacturing of certain products in the country has slowed.

As a result, most popular drugs such as paracetamol, Panadol, Panadein, Frisium, normal saline, and zinnat are in short supply.

In addition, there is a scarcity of antibiotic syrups for children in the country.

Mr. Gankanda stated that the increased demand for paracetamol tablets is due to a lack of supply rather than the triple threat of Omicron, dengue, and viral flu in society.